The Department of Revenue's (DOR) Legislation & Policy (L&P) division is seeking to hire a Tax Policy Specialist 3 (TPS 3) in Tumwater, WA. The selected candidate will support the department's mission by working with the Legislature and other stakeholders to establish tax policy through the enactment of state tax laws, by developing the department's legislative priorities, and by facilitating implementation of newly enacted state tax laws.

Are you interested in being part of the exciting and challenging world of legislation and tax policy? Do you enjoy working on important issues having agency-wide and even statewide significance? If so, this is your opportunity to join a small, yet elite, team of collaborative and innovative individuals who thrive in a fast-paced and demanding atmosphere.

Revenue is a dynamic learning organization where you will experience a remarkable work-life balance, with amazing leadership and talented co-workers ready and focused to achieve the agency's goals. We value diverse perspectives and life experiences. We employ and serve people of all backgrounds including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and veterans. This unique culture of respect promotes a professional family of cohesive groups maximizing potential through opportunity. We offer a generous benefits package that includes defined benefit retirement plans; health, dental and vision coverage, deferred compensation plans, and as a public service employee, you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness. 

Visit these links to watch our recruitment video to find out more about our agency and see what our employees say about why Revenue is a great place to work.

Candidate screening will begin as early as March 9, 2022 and the hiring authority may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to the applicant's advantage to submit materials as soon as possible.

We invite you to review the opportunity details below and forward this message to others you feel may be qualified.

Duties

As a member of this team, you will evaluate and influence state tax policy by providing timely analysis and feedback on complex legislation and tax policy issues for the Governor, Legislature, and other state agencies, and Department staff at all levels.  Additionally, as an essential function of this position, you will be a vital member of the team supporting the legislatively created Tax Structure Work Group. The Tax Structure Work Group is tasked with exploring possible adjustments to Washington’s tax code.   This will be accomplished through engagement with stakeholders and result in recommendations focused on alternatives to Washington’s current tax structure.

Typical functions of a Tax Policy Specialist include:

• Researching, analyzing, and tracking proposed legislation and initiatives.
• Assisting in drafting legislation and amendments.
• Drafting briefings and other significant documents.
• Facilitating interdivisional teams tasked with the implementation of new legislation.
• Participating in meetings and studies with external and internal audiences on important tax concerns.
• Providing technical and policy advice.
• Leading development of tax policy issues.
• Working on interim projects between legislative sessions.

Qualifications

This unique opportunity affords us to consider candidates with a legal or non-legal background so please ensure that your application materials address the qualifications below.

There are two ways to qualify:

(Non-Legal) -

A Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, accounting, public finance or closely allied field AND six years of professional experience in tax administration, tax auditing, tax collection, or tax program/policy analysis, in Washington or another jurisdiction.

Note -

• A Master's degree or equivalent in a Ph.D. program in taxation, public administration, public finance, accounting, business administration, or closely allied field will substitute for two years of experience.

(Legal) -
Admission to practice law in the State of Washington or graduation from an accredited school of law and current admission to practice before the highest court of a state AND one of the following:

• One year of experience as a TPS 2.
• Three years of experience as hearings examiner in a governmental agency, assistant attorney general, or practice as an attorney.

Note -

• An LL.M. or Master's degree in taxation or closely allied field will substitute for one year of experience.

This position functions within a fast-paced, politically complex environment within which accuracy, timeliness, and communication are essential. Throughout our selection process, we will also be evaluating candidates for behavioral attributes and technical skills to succeed in this environment.

To be considered

Complete your online application in detail and attach the following:

• A cover letter explaining how you meet the qualifications of this position.
• A resume, highlighting your work experience and education.
• At least three professional references with current telephone numbers.

*Note - Incomplete applications and applications received without requested attachments may be disqualified.*

To take advantage of Veteran's preference, please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22. Please blackout your social security number and date of birth before attaching.